Kat returns to Barron's in Longview!

Dear Readers,
Years ago I use to be the Children's Buyer and Manager at Barron's Books. Since then it has diversified into the most amazing store that goes way beyond books, now called Barron's. To return to Barron's for a book signing has brought my book loving life full circle. The staff there is just like family with Vicki, Lori, Donna, Tammy, and Al, all staff that I worked with years ago. Many, many old friends came to join me at the book signing, some I haven't seen since my Barron's days. Becky Ferrell whose daughter Meghan was one of the most frequent attendees at the storyhours I use to give. Marion Mack who as you can see from the photo, (us hugging like crazy) as she brought her granddaughters, Spencer and Madison to every single one of the events I use to do. All these children are now either college age or college bound. Another surprise was Jana Russell. I actually use to teach her swimming lessons back when I was in high school at the Eureka Country Club when she was in third grade. Janet too surprised me when she came by who I use to work with years ago and had been on the staff, I think, since inception at Barron's, recently retired. Many others came by or left notes for me as I signed books and caught up on old times. Sally Rathbun, the school librarian who I had helped many times through the years select books. This was a homecoming indeed!
Then lo and behold a vision of red and purple entered the room and I recognized faces. The faces of Nancy Cleere and Carolyn Reeves, then my my mother-in-law Reba Patrick popped into view with fellow Rotarians, Joann Shimic and Juanita Dean, and more! The Red Hat Club of Mims Chapel (Lake O' the Pines) had arrived in full Red and Purple Splendor! They asked me if I was surprised and were they kidding? Not an event has gone by that I haven't been surprised by the love and support of my friends, family, and readers! Oh, the places books have taken me and the wonderful friends I have made along the way. I tell everybody all the time that there is no other profession in the world where you get to meet so many wonderful and incredible people. Books are but the stepping stones to pure happiness for me. No matter the trials and tribulations we face as we travel this world, books are the lifesavers that keep me afloat.
What a blessing independent bookstores are too, especially the one where I took my baby steps as a bookseller! In my book I stated in the acknowledgements, "I also have to thank my first book family, Jim Barron and the wonderful staff of Barron's Books! You were my first informal "book club" and I never could have accomplished what I have without your giving me that first at bookselling and educating me on the wonderfyl world of books. Our time together will always be cherished and held close to my heart!" And for all of you at Barron's, what happened at our "Literary Investment Club, stays at our Literary Investment Club!"
Thanks to all of you for turning out at my home away from home and God Bless You on your reading roads ahead!
Tiara wearing and Book sharing,
Kathy L. Patrick
Founder of the Pulpwoood Queens' Book Clubs
www.beautyandthebook.com
P.S. Check out www.southernauthors.blogspot.com today as featured and really every day for the best stories from southern authors including ME!